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Arsenal after German keeper

By Thomas Zeh

Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed that Arsenal are hot on the trail of their 20-year-old goalkeeper Rene Adler.

After an impressive Fifa World Youth Championship, Adler has emerged as one of Germany's most talented young shot-stoppers, and his performances have not gone unnoticed outside of his home country.

Arsenal are still actively pursuing another goalkeeper after withdrawing their offer for young Uruguayan Sebastian Viera, as Manuel Almunia remains the only viable alternative to German international Jens Lehmann.

Whilst Feyenoord and Chelsea are also believed to be interested in the player, Leverkusen managing director Michael Reschke confirmed that Arsenal have identified Adler as a potential recruit.

"We know about the interest from Arsenal," said Reschke.

"Rene is a strong, young goalkeeper whose contract is running out [in 2006] and it's obvious that clubs are interested in him."

Leverkusen are keen to open talks regarding a contract extension, although Adler is becoming increasingly frustrated at coach Klaus Augenthaler's refusal to hand him a run in the first team.

Hans-Jorg Butt currently occupies the number one shirt at the BayArena, and Adler says that the Bundesliga side must change their philosophy regarding the youth ranks if he is to remain happy.

"Bayer will remain my first port of contact and I know that a young keeper has to be patient, but the club should have a clear philosophy or players will turn their attention elsewhere," warned Adler.

The talented youngster was recently promoted to the Germany Under-21 side, although acted as understudy to Bayern Munich's Michael Rensing as they defeated Poland 3-1 on Tuesday.